A zoning overlay does not change a property’s zoning. An overlay works in conjunction with the underlying zoning district to provide additional standards for building setbacks, screening, lighting and graphics. When an overlay is adopted by City Council, it becomes part of the zoning code and therefore must be followed by developers.
This Overlay was a recommendation of the Northwest Plan (adopted by City Council on October 22, 2007). The Plan was developed in coordination with the Northwest Civic Association and the Far Northwest Coalition. Brochure from the City. Both organizations have submitted letters of support for the proposed Overlay. Letters of Support The overlay ONLY affects NEW development or a substaintal change to an existing COMMERCIAL Development. Residential and existing commercial properties are NOT affected.
On November 12, 2008 the City of Columbus Planning Division, NWCA and the Far Northwest Civic Coalition held an open house concerning the application of a Regional Commercial Zoning Overlay on portions of Sawmill Road, Bethel Road and State Route 161 at Centennial High School. About ten residents attended. The group discussed specifics of the plan, as well as expanding the plan to cover all areas of the region, instead of the specifc areas identified on the map.
In late November 2008, the Far Northwest Coalition apprived Phase I of the Overlay. On December 3, 2008, the NWCA will be asked to vote on Phase I also. In Feburary 2009, the Development Commission approved Phase I of the Overlay. On June 22, 2009, Columbus City Council voted to approve the Northwest Regional Overlay for Bethel and Sawmill Roads.
NWCA and Far NW requested a Phase II to include areas not currently covered by Phase I. During the March 2009 Monthy meeting, NWCA Board of Trustee’s voted to write a letter formally requesting Phase II of the Overlay.
For more information visit the website for the City of Columbus Planning Division.
If you have any questions, please contact: Devayani Puranik, Columbus Planning Division at 614-645-0663 or ddpuranik@columbus.gov or Jennifer Adair, Zoning Chair, Northwest Civic Association at 614-286-6577 or JenniferAAdair@yahoo.com
